Due to the complexity of Dwarf Fortress, it is common to see players becoming overburdened by various things and scenarios that naturally occur in the game. Some of you might need Flux Stones but do not know how to acquire them. So what are Flux Stones? This Dwarf Fortress guide will quickly explain Flux Stones and how you can get them in the game.
How to Get Flux Stones in Dwarf Fortress
First of all, Flux Stones are not one type of material; instead, they are Stones that are classified under the Flux material category. Flux materials have a value of 2 (normal Stone only has 1 unit of value), making them ideal for stonework. They are:
- Calcite (Magma-safe).
- Chalk.
- Dolomite (Magma-safe, has 16507 °U melting point).
- Limestone.
- And Marble.
There are basically two ways you can get Flux Stones, either from mining or trading.
Mining for Flux Stones
Before you send out your merry dwarves to start digging, check your pre-embark screen if there is “Flux Layer(s)” text on the menu. Almost all Flux Stones (Chalk, Dolomite, and Limestone) exist as sedimentary layers and can contain significant amounts of iron-bearing ore — except for Calcite and Marble. Calcite is found between Limestone and Marble. Meanwhile, Marble forms in a metamorphic layer and can be found in virtually any habitat, mostly near volcanoes.
Trading for Flux Stones
If you already have a Trade Depot, then you can also acquire Flux Stones from trading. Keep in mind that you will need Flux Stones — not Flux Blocks — in order to craft Steel in the Smelter, and they should be found in the Material screen. But considering traders will not always have Flux materials ready in stock; usually, it’s much more efficient to just order Pig Iron or Steel directly from them instead.
How to Use Flux Stones in Dwarf Fortress
Flux Stones are necessary in order to craft a Pig Iron bar, the material needed for Steel. Here’s how you can make yourself some Pig Irons:
- Dwarf with a Furnace Operator labor task in the Smelter
- Iron Bar x1
- Flux Stone x1
- Fuel unit +1
- Coke or Charcoal
- Wood does not work
Related:
Dwarf Fortress: How To Use Floodgates
Dwarf Fortress is now available on PC via Steam and itch.io.
